I read about this interesting new study done by the University of Dundee in Scotland regarding the best position for your baby in the stroller.  It had nothing to do with safety but rather with their social development and stress level.  According to the researchers babies and toddlers who face out are more stressed and less aware that their parents are still there.  Whereas babies and toddlers who face their parents are more content, had a lower heart-rate and were twice as likely to fall asleep during the walk.   The study found that parents who faced their children outward were 50% less likely to interact and talk with their child.

Most strollers now adays have the child facing out once they no longer use the infant carseat in the stroller.  So, a lot of parents don’t have the option of facing their child towards them after a certain age.  The key in this situation is to talk to your child, point things out, communicate with words, gestures and laughter.

I personally think my daughter would not enjoy her stroller as much if she faced backwards.  She loves looking out and observing everything around.  I talk to her almost the whole time though, when she is babbling away!!  I think that as long as your child is comfortable, enjoying him or herself, and you are still interacting with your child then it doesn’t matter which way they face.

Anyway, I just thought it was an interesting study and wanted to share it will you.